Inmate Makeup: creativity, necessity, and prison resources

When one thinks of makeup in a prison setting, the image that may come to mind is a parody of actual use, often filled with exaggerations and misconceptions. The reality, however, involves ingenuity, necessity, and sometimes, sheer desperation. This article delves into the various ways in which inmates obtain and create their makeup, including the use of unconventional resources and the impact of modern prison policies.

Unconventional Makeup Resources

Many inmates resort to using unconventional resources to create their makeup. The reasoning behind this is both practical and creatively driven. In a setting where resources are often limited, inmates must get their makeup from whatever is available. For example, Kool-Aid (note the spelling correction from Koolaid) and Vaseline have been known to be used as lipstick and rouge. The reasoning here is simple—these products often have a similar consistency and can be tinted to meet certain needs.

Another common item used is acrylic paint, which can also be found in prison commissaries. Nail polish, in particular, is created by inmates using the paint from artistic supplies, which can be applied to the fingers or toenails. The quality and longevity of these DIY products are often questionable, but inmates find ways to enhance their appearance within the constraints of their environment.

The Evolution of Prison Makeup

The modern prison system has seen a significant change in the availability of makeup items. With an increasing number of transgender individuals in the prison system, facilities now stock items like makeup bras and panties. This shows a shift towards acknowledging and supporting gender diversity, even within the walls of correctional institutions.

Legality and Accessibility

In some states, like Oregon, female prisoners have the privilege of purchasing makeup through the commissary, which underscores the evolving approach to prison life and personal appearance. While rules are generally more stringent in federal institutions, there are often exceptions and special cases where inmates can obtain such items. The legality and accessibility of makeup within these institutions vary widely and are subject to change depending on prison policies and regulations.

Inmate Creativity and Imagination

In the absence of conventional makeup, inmates often display remarkable creativity and resourcefulness. The use of food items to create makeshift makeup is common. For example, some inmates have been observed using grape jelly or peanut butter as lipstick. The use of broken ink pens as eyeshadow is another ingenious solution.

The level of creativity is also influenced by time spent in the prison. With a surplus of time for reflection and innovation, inmates come up with increasingly elaborate and practical solutions to their makeup needs. This often involves carefully observing and mimicking trends, sometimes even predicting them before they become mainstream. The environment, therefore, fosters a unique and sometimes surprising approach to personal grooming.

Conclusion

The world of inmate makeup is a fascinating intersection of necessity, creativity, and adaptation. From Kool-Aid to acrylic paint, the resources available in prison have led to innovative solutions that cater to inmates' desire to look their best. As the prison system continues to evolve, these practices will undoubtedly transform, but the spirit of innovation and resourcefulness is likely to persist.

Explore more by visiting our YouTube channel for a detailed segment on 'fakeup' and how inmates create their own makeup.

Keywords: inmate makeup, prison resources, DIY makeup